Mandriva packs 3D desktop into USB key

Mandriva on Feb. 7 introduced a pre-installed Mandriva Linux 2007 distribution on a 2GB USB key. With "Mandriva Flash," users can take their own Mandriva system anywhere with them, plug in the key, and save and exchange data -- with about 1GB of space left over, according to the company.

Mandriva 2007 is based on a 2.6.17 Linux kernel. It uses KDE as a default desktop, but also supports both the GNOME and Xfce environments. Mandriva Flash includes a generous selection of desktop software, including browsers, email and messaging clients, office productivity suites, graphics and multimedia apps, and more.

As with a live CD, there is no need to install anything on the hard disk, no fear of conflicting with the other operating system, no need to format or repartition anything, and no documentation to deal with, Mandriva said.